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The Best Oat Milk of 2024
Oat milk is one of the most popular plant-based milk options to hit the market. It has a creamy, neutral taste that makes it a great replacement for cow’s milk, especially if you’re vegan or lactose-intolerant. It also has a lower environmental impact than dairy milk, as it doesn’t require as much water or land to produce. We’ve done our research and compiled the most popular oat milk beverages of 2024 to guide you on your dairy-free journey. Willa's Oat Milk is a team favorite because of its creamy consistency and low sugar content. Read on for more delicious options!
Our Top Picks For Oat Milk
View all ContentsThe Best Oat Milk
Best Overall
Willa’s Oat Milk offers a unique and delicious dairy-free alternative. It is low in sugar, sustainably produced, and made with four organic ingredients. The whole grain oat is used in the production process, resulting in more fiber and protein per serving. Additionally, oat milk requires less water than cow’s milk or nut milk, making it a better choice for the environment.
The oat milk is completely vegan, USDA organic, non-GMO certified, and free of any allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten. It has an excellent taste that can be enjoyed with coffee, cereals, and smoothies. What makes this oat milk even more convenient is its shelf-stable packaging. Once opened, however, the product should be refrigerated to preserve its freshness. But the most important thing that separates it from all the other options on our lists is the taste. It’s absolutely incredible.
Pros
- Organic with no added sugar
- Creamy, nice consistency
Cons
- May contain too much fiber for some
Creamiest Option
Califia Farms Oat Milk is an ideal choice for those looking for a non-dairy, plant-based alternative to traditional milk. This pack of bottles is shelf-stable and free from GMOs, gluten, and carrageenan. Plus, it’s Non-GMO Certified and glyphosate free. The blend is specifically formulated for perfect home lattes. It froths and steams easily, with a natural creaminess and subtle sweetness that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
It also blends well into coffee, resulting in a smooth, creamy cup every time. Professional baristas across the country choose this oat milk for its ability to froth and steam while forming latte art. For those seeking an alternative to traditional dairy products, this particular oat milk provides all the health benefits of oat milk such as high calcium content and more dietary fiber than dairy milk as well as being low in saturated fat.
Pros
- Excellent foaming ability
- No artificial flavors
Cons
- Contains a noticeable amount of oils
Most Flavorful
Oatsome Oat Milk promises to deliver a mild and creamy flavor without the discomfort associated with dairy-based milk. Certified organic and made with gluten-free oats, riboflavin, and other natural ingredients, this vegan and non-GMO oat milk makes a great substitute for other plant-based milk like coconut or soy.
Without any added sugar or artificial ingredients, this oat milk offers the same creamy consistency and flavor of dairy milk, so it can be used in lattes, cereals, oatmeal, baking treats, cooking foods, and more. For best results, chill the product before frothing. This all-purpose oat milk is sustainable, USDA-certified organic and contains no nuts. It is also gluten-free so those with food sensitivities can enjoy it safely. Whether you are looking for an alternative to whole milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or some other type of dairy substitute, Oatsome Organic Oat Milk is sure to fit the bill.
Pros
- Flavorful and drinkable
- Organic and non-GMO
Cons
- May contain preservatives
Most Natural
MALK Oat Milk is a delicious and healthy plant-based beverage made from high-quality organic oats. It’s perfect for those looking for an alternative to dairy or other plant-based milk, as it’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and Vitamin D. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a great addition to smoothies and shakes, as well as a delicious way to add flavor to your favorite recipes.
It’s also a great choice for baking, as the natural sweetness of the oats adds a subtle sweetness to dishes that you won’t get from other milk. With its creamy texture and subtly sweet taste, it’s an ideal addition to smoothies and baking recipes alike. Plus, it’s non-GMO Verified, certified USDA Organic, and free from gluten, soy, nuts, and lactose– making it perfect for those with food sensitivities or allergies.
Pros
- Low in fat and carbs
- Great taste and unique flavor
Cons
- Only one flavor option available
Most Versatile
Milkadamia Oat Milk is a delicious, low-calorie alternative to traditional dairy milk. It’s plant-based, vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO. With only 50 calories per creamy and tasty serving, this product is perfect for coffee, smoothies, baking, or drinking on its own. It features a hint of vanilla flavor.
The ingredients used for this product are grown on Jindilli Farm in the USA, which is run as naturally as possible and regeneratively farmed. This ensures that high-quality ingredients are used in their macadamia milk products. Overall, if you’re looking for an alternative to dairy milk that is vegan-friendly and Keto approved, then this oat milk is a perfect choice. Not only is it a delicious and healthy option but it also uses natural and high-quality ingredients — something that many people look for when buying food and drinks nowadays.
Pros
- Gluten-free and dairy free
- No artificial aftertaste
Cons
- Slight issues with delivery
The Best Oat Milk Buying Guide
When shopping for oat milk, there are many factors to consider. Use this comprehensive buyer’s guide to consider the product features and find the perfect oat milk for you.
Ingredients
When selecting oat milk, carefully examine the list of ingredients. Look for organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free options. These products are typically of higher quality and often contain fewer additives than their non-organic counterparts. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that any added flavorings are all-natural and free from preservatives.
Calories
Oat milk is generally considered a low-calorie beverage, with around 120 calories per cup on average. However, certain brands offer higher calorie counts due to added ingredients such as oils or sweeteners. If you’re looking for a low-calorie option, make sure to double-check the nutrition label before purchasing.
Protein/Fat Content
Generally, oat milk contains around one to two grams of protein per cup, with fat content ranging from 0 to 5 grams per cup. If you want to add more protein to your diet, you should consider purchasing oat milk fortified with pea protein. These products tend to have higher levels of both protein and fat compared to other brands.
Taste
Oat milk has a creamy texture and mild taste that lends itself well to baking and cooking applications. The flavor also varies among different brands. Some contain added sweeteners or spices for a sweeter taste, while others offer a less sweet option. Consider how you plan to use the oat milk and select one based on its flavor profile.
Vitamin and Mineral Content
Most oat kinds of milk have been fortified with additional vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D. Selecting oat milk fortified with these nutrients can help ensure you’re getting adequate amounts in your diet. However, it’s important to read the nutrition facts label carefully; some brands may contain more than necessary or none at all.
Lactose-Free
As oat milk is made from oats rather than dairy products, it is naturally lactose-free and therefore suitable for those following a dairy-free diet. However, it’s important to double-check the label as some varieties may be contaminated with dairy during processing or include added lactose in their ingredients list, like in ice cream.
Price
The price of oat milk varies depending on the brand and quality of the product. In general, expect to pay more for organic options or those that contain other added benefits such as extra vitamins or proteins. Budget-conscious shoppers should wait for sales to bring down the cost of their purchase significantly.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of an oat milk product depends on how it’s been processed and packaged; some require refrigeration while others can remain unrefrigerated until opened. In general, unopened products have a shelf life of up to two months when stored properly, but once opened, this will decrease significantly by around 7 to 10 days. Read the labels carefully to get an accurate timeline of when your product will expire for optimal freshness.
Allergens
Oat milk is free from common allergens such as nuts and wheat, however, this is not always guaranteed. It’s important to read the labels carefully when selecting oat milk, as some may contain traces of nut or wheat allergens due to cross-contamination. Additionally, certain flavoring agents, such as vanillin, can trigger food allergies in sensitive individuals. So, read ingredient lists thoroughly before making your purchase.
Additives
Some commercial oat milk contains added sweeteners or preservatives to extend their shelf life or make them more palatable; while these additives increase convenience they can also reduce nutritional value and create unwanted health risks depending on the type used, like artificial sweeteners. Look out for products labeled all-natural or 100% organic if you want to avoid unnecessary additives altogether.
Sustainability
Sustainability is an important factor when shopping for any kind of food product. Make sure you look for certification labels indicating that the product has been sustainably produced without excessive wastefulness. Avoid products that use harsh chemicals or pesticides as part of the production process. Additionally, seeking out locally sourced varieties can reduce your carbon footprint while you simultaneously support local farmers!
Ethical Practices
A company’s ethical practices are important to consider when you’re thinking about what to buy. Seek out products that adhere to fair trade regulations because they source their ingredients responsibly and fairly pay their workers. Also, look out for the Certified B Corp certifications, which indicate that a company meets certain standards regarding environmental performance, social responsibility, and economic performance.
Packaging and Disposal Method
Choosing environmentally friendly packaging is essential. Look for items packaged in glass jars or cardboard boxes. These can be easily recycled, whereas non-biodegradable plastic bottles unfortunately often end up in oceans and landfills worldwide. Additionally, double-check to see if your local recycling center accepts these materials so that you can dispose of them correctly!
People Also Asked
Is oat milk good for you?
Oat milk can be a nutritious alternative to dairy milk, as it's often fortified with vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin D. However, its nutritional value can vary depending on additives and processing, so it's essential to choose varieties with minimal added sugars and ingredients.
What is the shelf life of oat milk?
Once opened, carton or shelf-stable oat milk typically lasts up to 7 days after opening when stored in the refrigerator. Unopened cartons of shelf-stable oat milk can last up to 6 months when stored at room temperature, as long as it is kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Does oat milk contain gluten?
Oat milk naturally does not contain gluten, but cross-contamination can occur during processing. Look for certified gluten-free oat milk if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Is oat milk high in protein?
No, oat milk is not particularly high in protein compared to cow's milk. Depending on the variety, it may contain around 2 grams of protein per cup, which is much less than cow's milk at 8 grams per cup.
What is the difference between oat milk and cow's milk?
The main difference between oat milk and regular cow's milk is that oat milk is plant-based and dairy-free. Alternatively, regular cow's milk is an animal-based dairy product with higher levels of saturated fat and cholesterol. Oat milk is lower in calories and has less sugar than regular cow's milk, but can also have higher fiber and lower protein.
